Introduction:
Savory puff pastry with minced meat and cheese is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines flaky, golden puff pastry with flavorful minced meat and melted cheese. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal, this dish is both delicious and easy to make. The crispy texture of the puff pastry complements the savory filling, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a quick bite, this recipe is sure to be a favorite.
Ingredients:
1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
300g minced beef or lamb
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
100g shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add the minced meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Season with ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred serving size.
Place a spoonful of the cooled minced meat mixture in the center of each puff pastry square.
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the meat mixture.
Assemble the Pastry:
Fold the puff pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle. Press the edges firmly to seal the pastry.
If desired, brush the top of each pastry with a beaten egg to give it a golden, shiny finish.
Bake:
Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden and crispy.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired, and serve warm.
Description:
This savory puff pastry with minced meat and cheese combines the crispy, buttery goodness of puff pastry with the rich, flavorful filling of minced meat and melted cheese. The combination of spices adds depth to the meat, while the cheese creates a gooey and satisfying texture. These pastries make an excellent finger food for parties or a quick weeknight meal. The golden, flaky exterior contrasts perfectly with the savory filling, ensuring each bite is full of flavor.
Tips:
Meat Choice: You can substitute the minced beef or lamb with chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you prefer.
Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta, goat cheese, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar, for a unique flavor profile.
Make Ahead: These pastries can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them for later use—just bake from frozen and add an extra few minutes to the baking time.
Spices: Feel free to add other spices like chili flakes, oregano, or coriander to enhance the flavor of the filling.
Golden Finish: For an extra golden finish, brush the pastries with a mixture of egg yolk and a splash of milk.
Variations:
Vegetarian Option: Replace the minced meat with sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers, for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Herbed Pastry: Add finely chopped fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) into the puff pastry dough before assembling for added flavor.
Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or finely chopped fresh chili to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
Mini Pastries: For bite-sized treats, cut the puff pastry into smaller squares or circles and create mini parcels. Perfect for parties or snacks.
Corrections:
Dry Filling: If the minced meat filling is too dry, you can add a small amount of beef broth or a spoonful of tomato paste to create a richer texture.
Puff Pastry Issues: If the puff pastry is not puffing up as expected, make sure to use a cold baking sheet and preheat the oven fully. Also, avoid overhandling the dough, as this can prevent the pastry from rising properly.
Enjoy:
Now that your savory puff pastry with minced meat and cheese is ready, enjoy it fresh from the oven! The crispy golden pastry, combined with the savory filling, makes for an irresistible treat. Perfect for any occasion, these pastries will surely be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!